What is a key feature of Autism Spectrum Disorder?

A key feature of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is the presence of deficits in interpersonal relationships and communication. Individuals with ASD often experience challenges in understanding social cues, maintaining conversations, and forming relationships with others. These difficulties can manifest in various ways, such as trouble making eye contact, challenges in interpreting body language, or difficulty in sharing interests and emotions.

These communication impairments are symptomatic of the broader social interaction deficits associated with ASD, making option C the correct answer. It highlights the core impairments that characterize the disorder, which can significantly impact an individual's ability to engage socially and communicate effectively in various settings.

In contrast, strong interpersonal relationships and social skills, as mentioned in one of the options, are not typically associated with ASD. While speech delays can occur in some individuals, it is not universal to all cases of ASD. Additionally, stereotypic behaviors, such as repetitive movements or adherence to routines, are common in individuals with ASD, making the statement about the absence of such behaviors incorrect.